It is said in Morocco that he who enters Fez with a rug will leave with a moneybag. This saying originated because of the high demand for beautiful Moroccan rugs and carpets to decorate the home. In Morocco, woven materials are an essential part of daily life and are also believed to be a source of magic and power.

Weaving is a Moroccan tradition involving many different saints, depending on the region of Morocco you visit. The most popular weaving saint throughout Morocco is Sidi Moulay Idriss. He is believed to be the inventor of weaving, embroidery and tailoring. The popular belief in Morocco is that he was a sage who had magical powers.

Moroccan rugs are uniquely decorated with many variations of design, vivid colors and an assortment of textures and materials. The power they embody from their creation and carry throughout their use in the home, set Moroccan rugs and carpets far apart from others made in Islamic and African cultures.

Moroccans say that no two Moroccan rugs are alike so you can be assured that any Moroccan rug added to your home is one of a kind. Your neighbors will be in awe of its unmatched beauty and the attention to detail paid by the weaver. Moroccan weavers are given great freedom to do as they feel with their ample vocabulary of symbols, shapes and animal representation.

The weaving motifs and patterns speak on many levels. The design can be an indicator of status, wealth, and religious beliefs or simply identify a family or tribe. The different symbols used also hold magical powers in Moroccan culture. Some are thought to ward off evil and bring good luck.

The most common places to find woven tapestries incorporated into Moroccan décor are in the bedroom, dining room and living area. Of course, woven Moroccan materials are also used for saddles, clothing and in traditional ceremonies.

To add Moroccan flair with tapestries to your bedroom, there are several options. Intricately woven Moroccan blankets can be used on the bed. The heaviness and warmth will depend on what materials the blanket is made of. Add throw pillows in vibrant colors with woven or embroidered designs.

The dining room is a very common place to find a woven carpet in a Moroccan home. Instead of a table, Moroccan families place a large rectangular rug on a divan. Since most home in Morocco are dimly lit, the bright colors of the rug create a nice contrast.

Your living area is meant to be the most inviting and comforting room of your home. Make guests feel welcome with Moroccan chairs made of hand-woven fabrics, topped off with more embroidered throw pillows. Put Moroccan throw blankets across the back of the couch to give the space that something extra.

These are just a few of the many, simple ways to add Moroccan decor to your home without drastically changing everything. Just including these small touches of color and intricately detailed pieces will give your home a new Moroccan feel.

Adeal Benhayoun is the owner of Star of Morocco, which specializes in Moroccan decor and Moroccan pottery. Please visit us, to learn more about Moroccan rugs and how they can be used.